The first of four district-sponsored community forums, centering on a request for an additional 2.95 mills, takes place at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Centreville Elementary School's gymnasium.

Dave Peterson, president of the Centreville Public Schools Board of Education, said the sessions are focused on information only.

"This forum and the next three are opportunities for the public to ask questions and learn more about why the request is being made," Peterson said.

If approved on Nov. 5, the 2.95 mills would address needs for the district's buildings, technology and transportation over a 15-year period. At stake is $12.8 million.

Peterson said Superintendent Rob Kuhlman will lead the session, but board of education members and "Our Kids First" committee members will be present to address potential questions.

The request is Centreville's first since 1999. Peterson said he understands there's nothing glamorous about having to ask for money to support new roofs at both schools and the district's agricultural-education building.

Other proposed upgrades include boiler replacement, secure entrances, ceiling and lighting replacement, new windows and a technology infrastructure to

replace one that is currently 10 years old.

"We're not trying to create the idea that maintenance and care of the schools have been mismanaged," Peterson said. "But just like any homeowner knows, over time you have to keep up with things and that takes money."

Peterson said he has fielded comments from a number of people over the past few weeks. He is encouraged that many comments are positive and interest is high.

Although no one has openly opposed the request, Peterson said he understands the school board and "Our Kids First" committee members have a responsibility to make sure the public is informed.

"I think it's important to remind people that we're around

4 mills right now, and an additional 2.95 mills would put us back near where we were after the 1999 millage request was passed," Peterson said.

He also said he hopes community members understand how the proposed tasks would be completed in three stages over the 15-year life of the proposed millage.

"The three phases is a process that keeps costs down and it keeps millage rates reasonable," he said.

Additional community meetings are scheduled for Sept. 24,

Oct. 8 and Oct. 22. Each begins at 7 p.m. and is held at the elementary school.